We live on a fairly large, almost one acre, corner lot (we had 1/3 of an acre and then bought the 1/2 acre next to us). It’s completely enclosed with 6 ft fencing. The back (not facing the road) is a privacy wall and the majority of the rest is chain link. The entire property is open for viewing from both road angles.

And while we don’t mind being referred to as the dog trainers down the street, when I’m out training in the yard, I’m often the focal point of passers-by. This generally results in friendly chit-chat and I end up getting asked a lot of questions about what I’m doing. While this is all nice and friendly for folks out on a leisurely stroll, it can be quite disruptive and some days I don’t have a lot of time to stand around and chat. I’ve even resorted to being rude and pretending I don’t hear them.

Ironically, one of the more chatty neighbors suggested that I get these things called Privacy Slats for the chain link. I’m sure they’re quite pricey but I wonder how well they would stand up. Has anyone ever heard of or used these things?

I've seen them, but don't know their sturdiness. My mom grew climbing roses on our chain link. Absolutely gorgeous and not very appealing for the animals to go near. That was in SoCal. Maybe ivy would work.

GTG ...
http://www.fencecenter.com/store/default.aspx?DepartmentId=15048

That sounds like a wonderfully, beautiful idea Mariellena. I’m afraid I’m not much of a gardener though and they would probably get neglected if they grew at all. We get pretty cold winters up here. Does the ivy foliage stay all year round?

My neighbors have had them on their chain link for 20 years. They still look good and they are private. Our area is enclosed with cedar stockade, but we had to replace a large area on one side, where 6 little yappy dogs live, with chain link, I will be buying the slats.

We have an area way down back that I planted Ivy, that works in the summer, but everything is visible in the winter.

Great site Mr. Snyder. There are some really nice looking coverings. Of course the one I found most attractive seems to be the most expensive. But that instant hedge thing would be absolutely beautiful. Wow, how convenient would that be. We have about 300 ft that I would like to see covered.

So from your experience Tammy, they sound fairly durable. I wonder if the fuzzy hedge looking ones would be as durable. Do they fasten fairly tightly or are they something that could slip and slide fairly easy, or get pulled out.

Our fences take quite a bit of abuse with flying balls and people leaning on them. Mind you if it was more private, less people up against them.

The slats my neighbor's have are mounted securely, they don’t seem to slide, however, they don’t have dogs. I am outside with my dogs, so I wouldn’t allow them to jump on the fence. I have many kids in the yard, so I have wondered how they would hold up with them.

The hedge slats, what about weedwackers around them?

 Quote: Tammy Moore

The hedge slats, what about weedwackers around them?

LOL, yes, I was wondering the same thing. In the picture it looks like they have shorter, real hedges at the base. Although absolutely beautiful, this particular one may not be the most practical.

And no, my dogs aren't fence chargers and don't jump on the current one we have either. It's people, I too, am worried about. The fingers through the chain link and leaning against it as they chat from the other side or get huddled in a corner or something.